The Abundant Christian Life

Speaker: Toby Soechting

Scripture: John 10:7-10; Romans 8:26-30

INTRODUCTION:

1. “…I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.” (John 10:10, NKJV) 
2. A Christian is continually reminded that God wants him to enjoy life!  Jesus gives a Christian an advantage!
3. The “advantage” is clearly seen in Romans 8:26-30

DISCUSSION:  IF I AM A CHRISTIAN, I AM PROMISED --

I. GOD WILL WORK GOOD FOR ME.

1. “All things” of Rom. 8:28, implies both good and bad! 
2. When circumstances work out well, God deserves the credit and glory (Cf. Mt. 5:45).
3. The Bible doesn’t promise me that my circumstances will be better than anyone else’s.
4. The very things I count as bad may end up being things God works for the good of saving my soul.

II. THE BEST EXPERIENCE OF MY LIFE LIES IN THE FUTURE.

1. A Christian is justified (Rom. 8:30).
   1. Just as if I’d never sinned!
   2. It is a legal term, and a one time occurrence.
2. A Christian is glorified (Rom. 8:30).
   1. The term is in the present tense!
   2. I am glorified!

CONCLUSION:  As we travel through life, with its trouble and strife, we’ve a glorious hope to give cheer on the way!  God promises us all the help we need.

The Abundant Christian Life

9/11 and Psalm 64 - Fear Of The Enemy

Speaker: Toby Soechting

Scripture: Psalms 64:1-10

Introduction:

1.        In this Psalm, we once again find David preoccupied with his enemies.

2.        It is quite possible that David wrote Psalm 63 during the time of Saul’s persecution of him, and Psalm 64 during the time of Absalom’s rebellion (cf. 2 Sam. 15-19).

3.        I was preparing to study this Psalm with my Tuesday class, when the events of September 11, 2001 began unfolding before my eyes.

DISCUSSION:  AS CHILDREN OF GOD JOURNEY AMONGST THE ATTACKS AND DISTRACTIONS OF THE UNGODLY, PSALM 64 REMINDS US –

I.     WE DESIRE PRESERVATION (VV. 1,2).

• Hear my voice, O God, in my meditation; preserve my life from fear of the enemy.
  Hide me from the secret plots of the wicked, from the rebellion of the workers of iniquity.

II.    EVIL IS PROMINENT (VV. 3-6).

•  They encourage themselves in an evil manner; They talk of laying snares secretly; They say, "Who will see them?" (v. 5) 

III.   GOD’S PROVIDENCE IS PROMISED (VV. 7-9).

• But God shall shoot at them with an arrow; Suddenly they shall be wounded (v.7)

Conclusion:  The righteous shall be glad in the Lord, and trust in Him.  And all the upright in heart shall glory (v. 10).

9/11 and Psalm 64 - Fear of the Enemy